Batman: Gotham City Secret Files

The “Cataclysm” and “Aftershock” storylines ran through the Batman family of titles and destroyed Gotham City; and the “No Man’s Land” saga – and an opportunistic Lex Luthor – rebuilt the Dark Knight’s hometown. This one-shot establishes the new status quo in the big, dark city. Batman: Gotham City Secret Files maps out Gotham City, offering detailed looks at the Wayne Building, the downtown area, the Gotham Cathedral Square, various neighborhoods, and the Batcave. Several profile pages spotlight Batman, the Huntress, and the Gotham City Police Department, as well as a smattering of supporting characters and villains.

A lengthy opening story does much to further establish the new Batgirl, Cassandra Cain – whose series was launching around the time of this special – and brings her into contact with Catwoman, who’s a bit too playful and a bit too close to villainy for the young heroine’s tastes.